Justin Turner discusses the importance of growing and improving each game in Spring Training, the energy he feels from the 2025 Cubs team, and more

The Chicago Cubs finalized their $6 million, one-year contract Thursday with Justin Turner, who then went through workouts with the team before its opening game of spring training. Turner, a two-time All-Star third baseman,

Reconciliation with the Chicago Cubs reached a new level for Sammy Sosa on Wednesday, when he wore the team uniform for the first time in 21 years at their spring complex in Mesa, Ariz.

Cubs staff, fans, and members of the press watch Chicago Cubs pitcher Shota Imanaga throw in a live batting practice during spring training at Sloan Park on Sunday, Feb. 16, 2025, in Mesa, Ariz. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)

The Cubs designated outfielder Alexander Canario for assignment to clear a spot on the 40-man roster for Turner.

With the lineup mostly set (Assuming Shaw wins the third base job), we should focus our attention more on the bench. Things were a bit clearer before the Cubs signed Justin Turner, but now, with him and backup catcher Carson Kelly, it only leaves two spots between Alexander Canario, Jon Berti, and Vidal Brujan.

Today's baseball news includes the first Spring Training game, the Athletics' extension negotiations, and a Cubs roster move. Read more at MLBTR.

A person with direct knowledge of the situation says Justin Turner has agreed to a $6 million, one-year deal with the Chicago Cubs

Notes: Manager Craig Counsell spoke glowingly of Gage Workman's first spring-training game as a Cub, and Justin Turner hit in a simulated game.

The addition of Turner would give the team some security at third base should Matt Shaw need more seasoning in the minors.

Turner can earn an additional $2 million in bonuses this year: $1.5 million for plate appearances and $500,000 for time on the active roster.

Turner played for the Mets from 2010-14 and was on the cusp of becoming a dominant hitter when the Mets non-tendered him and he signed a minor-league deal with the Dodgers, where he became an everyday player and one of the MLB’s most productive middle-of-the-lineup bats.